Letter to the editor: Jamestown should not use sales tax for infrastructure

Talk about it

I would like our city leaders to look at a different method instead of taking sales tax revenue to fund infrastructure repairs.

Jamestown and Stutsman County need as much money to support economic development as possible. Taking money away from economic development will put Jamestown at a great disadvantage to draw businesses and people to town.

Rather, the city should look at adding a franchise or user fee to utility bills. This is a small fee added to each utility bill for residents and businesses. One of the problems with property taxes is the large amount of exempt properties. This includes churches, schools, government property and some new businesses. Most non-profits are tax exempt and do not pay sales tax, either. Having a franchise fee will mean these exempt organizations will start to contribute funds for infrastructure improvements.

Additionally, I understand some sewer lines need complete replacement, but I hope the city looks into the process of relining the sewer lines. Valley City, N.D., plans to reline most of the failed sewer lines. This process does not require street replacement, is less expensive and takes less time.

Our city leaders need to take a hard look at the problems and solutions before making any decisions.

David Klein

Jamestown

Tags: opinion, letters, job, developement